For many shoppers, buying a new pickup truck is simply not in the cards. Today’s trucks only seem to be growing in cost, forcing some to look to the used market for a pre-owned option. Even with the rising costs of pickups, it is possible to find a used truck for under $15,000, and that is especially true of the Nissan Frontier. That’s right, depending on condition and configuration, you can get a mid-size pickup without having to break the bank.

Should you buy a used Nissan Frontier?

The Nissan Frontier has long been a mainstay in Nissan’s lineup, and buying used can get you a reliable truck. For 2022, Nissan finally brought the Frontier into its third generation, but that doesn’t mean you should necessarily go out and buy one. 

In the past, the Frontier was certainly enough truck for most uses. Even when equipped with the base four-cylinder engine. If you must have the V6 engine, keep in mind that you might have to opt for a truck with higher mileage. But it is possible to find one for under $15,000. 

How can you buy a used Frontier?

One of the ideal ways to shop for a used vehicle is via AutoTempest, which is a site that can organize vehicles for sale in different places. Because of this, you can find the ideal used Nissan Frontier for your specific needs. Allowing you to sort through the noise and focus on what you are actually shopping for. 

When buying a used truck, it is important to do your due diligence as well. If possible, take the vehicle to an independent mechanic and get the truck’s service history. That way, you can buy with more confidence knowing your Frontier is ready for the miles ahead. 

Which Nissan Frontier years should you avoid?

While the Frontier is a decent mid-size truck, there are some years to avoid and that includes 2005, 2006, and 2007. Trucks from this year had an issue with their transmissions, which could make them unreliable. And no one wants to buy a pickup that they cannot rely on. 

Starting in 2008, Nissan was able to fix this transmission problem. And prior to 2005, the Nissan Frontier should be a safe buy. But, keep in mind, if you get a truck that old, you are buying something that has been on the road for nearly 20 years. And that could cause problems on its own. 

Find a used truck for under $15,000

If you are shopping for a truck that costs under $15,000, Nissan’s mid-size truck is a solid option. While models in that price point will likely have higher miles and be older if you find the right one you will get something with plenty of life left in it. 

Remember, before you buy a used Frontier, be sure to do basic things like taking what you are interested in for a test drive. Doing so will allow you to see first-hand the caliber of vehicle that is being offered.